Musical Review: Matilda

Last Friday I had the pleasure of going to the Cambridge Theater to see Matilda the Musical and I absolutely loved it, so I thought I'd share my impressions with you.

As a kid, I was a huge fan of Matilda. I don't know how many times I must have seen the movie! I think she is one of the reasons I love books so much. She taught me that books are important, they can be comforting, a place you can escape to but they also give you strength and self confidence. So, as you can imagine, I was bit worried that I'd be a bit disappointed if the musical didn't deliver the magic in this story.

As soon as we entered the theater though, I could tell I was in for something special. The stage was beautifully decorated with blocks with letters. We spent several minutes trying to spot words, like Acrobat, Rage, Escape or Malice.

And once the lights went out and the show started I was completely mesmerized. I needn't have worried, they not only captured the magic of this story but made it even more magical and especial. The changing sets, from the library, to Matilda's house, to the school were simply perfect. With every change, you could feel the atmosphere in the theater changing too and the tension building.

All actors were amazing but I'd like to mention the fantastic job that the actor playing Agatha Trunchbull did. She was a character that I hated with all my heart and I thought it was not possible to hate her more. I was wrong, I hated this version of her even more. And I loved every minute. The actor captured the malice in her perfectly. He moved around the stage like he owned it. His mannerisms were spot on and I could have stayed there all night just looking at him.

And then the children! I didn't think it was possible to find so many talented children! Seriously, when I was that age, I was happy if I was able to sing the alphabet song. They were flawless, enthusiastic and all around amazing.

Finally, I take my hat off for the lights and sound team and the band. While I was in there, I felt like I was in a completely different universe. The music was intense and completely enveloped you. And the lightning helped even more with this feeling.

I really thing it is one of the best musicals I have ever seen (and I've seen a few), I'd say it's up there with the Lion King. An experience I highly recommend, especially if you are a fan of Matilda. But also if you are not, my husband had never read the book nor seen the movie and left the theater equally fascinated as me. I think he is a converted Matilda fan.

Check the show times and get your tickets here (or just check the Trunchbull's Insult Generator, it's great fun):